Kenya’s Lillian Kariuki has been appointed to TikTok’s newly established Safety Advisory Council for Sub-Saharan Africa. This announcement was made during TikTok’s Safety Summit in Nairobi, marking a significant step in the platform’s efforts to enhance safety measures across the region. Kariuki is among eight distinguished members chosen for their expertise and commitment to fostering a secure online environment.
TikTok’s initiative to launch this Safety Advisory Council underscores its dedication to improving platform safety by collaborating with key stakeholders, including policymakers, academics, NGOs, and community leaders. The Council will focus on developing forward-looking policies and addressing regional safety concerns, ensuring a robust and positive user experience.
Valiant Richey, Global Head of Outreach and Partnerships at TikTok, emphasized the importance of integrating African voices into TikTok’s Trust and Safety work. He highlighted that the new Council will play a crucial role in shaping policies and safety processes, addressing both current issues and anticipating future challenges.
Since 2020, TikTok has established several regional Safety Advisory Councils globally, each contributing to the platform’s policies and safety measures. The Sub-Saharan Africa Safety Advisory Council aims to build on these efforts by incorporating local expertise and insights into TikTok’s safety strategies.
The appointed members of the Sub-Saharan Africa Safety Advisory Council include notable experts such as Prof. Guy Berger from Rhodes University, Dennis Coffie, and Dr. Akinola Olojo. Their diverse backgrounds and experience will enrich the Council’s work, supporting TikTok’s mission to enhance user safety and promote a secure online environment.
This strategic move by TikTok reflects its ongoing commitment to addressing regional safety issues and reinforcing the platform’s role in creating a secure and positive space for users. The involvement of regional experts will be pivotal in navigating and mitigating the evolving safety challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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